There is a real danger of sensory overload with such a myriad of sights and sensations. To make the most of your time in Istanbul, start with these essential experiences and expand your mind and time from here:

The Topkapi Palace

Overlooking the Golden Horn, the Topkapi Palace housed Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years from its construction in 1453. Its interior is ornately gilded and marbled – the perfect setting from which to run an empire.

There are literally hundreds of rooms, all designed around the original four courtyard layout. Allow at least half an afternoon to explore.

Grand Bazaar

Kapali Carsi – this is one of the truly mind boggling places in Istanbul.

A shopping mecca for hundreds of years, the bazaar is packed with almost everything imaginable. Bargaining is certainly expected, and a fantastic way to secure unbeatable deals on leather work, gold, silver and the ubiquitous carpets!

Yerebatan Cistern

Justinian the Great, emperor during the mid sixth century, commissioned one of Istanbul’s highlights, the Yerebatan Cistern, known as the underground palace.

It is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in the city and is certainly elaborate. Fine brick vaulting is supported by 336 Corinthian columns and the head of Medusa is carved into two enormous blocks at one end.

Ayasofya Museum

One could not leave Istanbul without a visit to Ayasofya Museum and the Blue Mosque.

Constantine the Great had the ‘Saint Sofia’ basilica built and it came to be regarded as the greatest church in Christendom.

The interior boasts an immense dome and breathtaking mosaic tiles, which leave a permanent impression on all visitors.

Blue Mosque

The exterior of the Blue Mosque elicits a similar feeling. In fact, this mosque was constructed by Sultan Ahmet I, who was determined to build something to outshine the Ayasofa Museum. Supremely elegant, this mosque is designed to draw one’s eyes ever closer to heaven.

Absolute magic!

Alzer Hotel

Alzer Hotel is the only hotel located at the centre of Sultanahmet’s historical hippodrome where the cultures and religions meet. The hotel gives you a taste of these differences by its location, mystically renovated building and traditional Turkish hospitality. The hotel is facing The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet) and is literally within five minutes walking distance from Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar.

Our 22 rooms are in a re-decorated old Turkish house, where you won’t see just another hotel but you’ll find the traditional Turkish hospitality and smiling faces. Our service here will make you feel at your home though you are away from home. All rooms are equipped with shower & WC, direct dial telephone, music, air conditioning, TV satellite system with CNN, minibar, central heating and hair-dryer.

You may find our safety boxes at the reception. 24 hours room service is available.

Hotel Sultanahmet Sarayi

Hotel Sultanahmet Sarayi (Sultanahmet Palace) – is in the old city with a large garden facing directly at the blue mosque. It is is enchanting with its unique old mansion looking architecture.

The major highlights and historical sights -i.e. St Sophia/ Hippodrom/ Topkapi Palace/ Archeological museum/ Underground Cisterns and many more- are only 3-5 min. and grand bazaar 10 min. away on foot.

Sultanahmet Palace Hotel is located right behind Blue Mosque and across the Mosaic museum and is in walking distance to major attractions in the old city (Sultanahmet area). Standard room size is between 15-20 square meters.

All rooms are with en suite WC/ ottoman hammam style bathrooms covered with marble. The hand-held shower is also available and there is no bathtub in the rooms.